Year 2024, Volume 9, Issue 1
| Year : | 2024 |
| Volume : | 9 |
| Issue : | 1 |
| Authors : | Lenka BOBUĽSKÁ, Lenka DEMKOVÁ, Dagmar HAVIAROVÁ, Július ÁRVAY |
| Title : | IMPACT OF AGRICULTURAL ACTIVITY ON SUBTERRANEAN ECOSYSTEMS IN CASE OF PONICKÁ CAVE (SLOVAKIA) |
| Abstract : | Cave ecosystems, which represent a very specific environment for living organisms, are largely influenced by the external environment. These systems are among the most vulnerable ecosystems because they are extremely sensitive to any environmental changes. The main aim of this study was to analyse the biological and chemical indices of soil samples collected in the Karst region. Soil organic carbon, total nitrogen content, soil pH, activity of selected soil enzymes (FDA, β-glucosidase, urease, phosphatases), and content of risk elements were determined at nine sites around Ponická Cave. Enzymatic activity reduces its function under the influence of inappropriate agricultural activity as well as the high content of risk elements. Ponická Cave is characterized by a close hydrological connection with the earth’s surface, thus representing a very vulnerable habitat, which deserves more attention in the protection of natural elements of the landscape. Very high concentration of toxic elements (As, Cd, Co, Cu, Fe, Mn, Pb and Zn) was recognized on localities that are close to the cave entry, which in higher concentrations cause contamination of underground ecosystems. The results showed that risk elements have an impact on important soil parameters, such as the enzymatic activity of the microbial population and chemical properties. In view of the risks associated with water erosion and rainwater runoff from non-karst lands, agricultural activity in these soils should be completely excluded. |
| For citation : | Bobuľská, L., Demková, L., Haviarová, D., Árvay, J. (2024). Impact of agricultural activity on subterranean ecosystems in case of Ponická cave (Slovakia). AGROFOR International Journal, Volume 9. Issue No. 1. pp. 77-84. DOI: 10.7251/AGREN2401077B |
| Keywords : | Cave system, Risk elements, Soil microbial activity, Ponická Cave, Pollution. |
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ISSN 2490-3434 (Printed)
ISSN 2490-3442 (Online)
ISSN 2490-3442 (Online)
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